Dad who died after falling from Six Flags rollercoaster had survived fiery car accident weeks earlier

The beloved dad and teacher who tragically died after falling from a rollercoaster at Six Flags Over Georgia had recently survived a car accident.

Hassan Jihad Ibn Kariem, 42, died in a horror fall from the Goliath ride while visiting the park with his family.

Horrified witnesses told local media that Hassan came loose from his seat and fell to the ground.

The ride was stopped after the incident, with aerial footage from the scene showing riders being helped down from the roller coaster.

Speaking to 11Alive, one visitor said they spent ‘more than an hour’ stuck on the ride before they were eventually able to get down.

The shocking incident has left Hassan’s family devastated with a family friend telling WSB-TV: “We’re absolutely devastated by this loss. Any loss of a family member or friend is tragic but to lose him in this manner is beyond [what] words can even express.”

The family friend also revealed that the Atlanta Public Schools educator had faced several tough times in recent years, including having cancer twice, most recently in 2018.

The Goliath roller coaster was stopped while riders where helped down (11Alive)

Hassan and his 10-year-old daughter also survived a car fire just weeks ago.

It's unclear what caused the fire.

Hasan was an employee at Wesley International Academy in the Atlanta Public Schools district, which has since paid tribute to the teacher and IT manager.

"The Wesley International Academy community is devastated by the loss of Hassan Kariem, affectionately known as Mr. Kariem, who was a beloved colleague, friend, and integral part of the Wesley family for more than 12 years," the statement said.

"His love for Wesley, dedication to our students, and commitment to our school community were evident in everything he did. Mr. Kariem was deeply loved and respected, and his absence will be felt throughout our school community. Our hearts are with his family, friends, colleagues, students, and all who knew and loved him as we mourn this tremendous loss. We ask that our community keep Mr. Kariem's family in their thoughts and respect their privacy during this difficult time."

Following the incident, Six Flags Over Georgia was evacuated.

In a statement shared with LADbible on Monday, a spokesperson from Six Flags Over Georgia said: "We are deeply saddened by the guest incident at our park today.

Hasan and his daughter survived a car fire just weeks before his death (WSB-TV)

"Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the guest’s family, friends, and loved ones. We are also providing support to the guests and team members affected.

"The park team and local authorities responded immediately, and we are cooperating fully with local authorities as they complete their investigation.

"Out of respect for the family’s privacy, we will not be sharing additional details at this time."

Mableton Mayor Michael Owens released a statement following the tragedy, to say city officials were 'deeply saddened' by the incident and that police were also involved.

"Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the individual’s family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time," the statement continued.

"Mableton Public Safety Director Dr. Kerry Stallings is coordinating with Cobb County Police and park security as the situation is addressed. We are grateful to the personnel responding to this incident and will continue to support coordination with the appropriate authorities."